Dominance and submission (D/s) — a relationship dynamic in which, by mutual consent, one partner takes the leading role while the other voluntarily hands over part of their control.
What it means
D/s is part of the broader field of BDSM, but the emphasis here is on the psychological exchange of power rather than necessarily on physical practices. The roles can appear in specific scenes or extend to agreed-upon areas of shared life. The foundation of the dynamic is trust, clear boundaries and consent: submission is seen as a conscious choice, not a loss of will. The leading partner is responsible for the well-being of the one who follows.
Example
A couple agrees that within an agreed-upon scene one makes the decisions and the other follows them, while keeping the right to say stop at any moment. That way the power stays consensual.
Related terms
BDSM, switch, safeword.
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